In a March 2023 survey of more than 250 child care providers, the Alabama School Readiness Alliance found that child care enrollment is lower than pre-COVID levels due to acute staffing shortages. That means revenue is down for child care providers, who are squeezed for funding even in normal times. Our survey found that the average child care center in Alabama currently has four staff vacancies, and is therefore operating at less than 75 percent of capacity. ASRA also surveyed more than 300 Alabama parents and found that they are frustrated with long waiting lists and reduced hours of care. Top concerns cited by parents included "Availability... I waited in line outside like it was Black Friday to get my child a spot," and, "[My child's] center being closed due to not enough staff.” Thankfully, Alabama's Department of Human Resources is working to address our state's ongoing child care crisis with another round of the Temporary Assistance for Sustaining Child Care grant. DHR will be accepting applications for the grant program from licensed child care providers through June 16. Applicants who qualify will receive $2,000 for each daytime child care slot, which is double the original grant amount. “These grants are another key step toward resolving the complex challenges facing the child care industry,” said Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. “Although some obstacles remain, we are making steady progress thanks to our valuable partnerships with child care providers, advocates and policymakers.” Allowable grant expenditures include employee pay, facility maintenance and purchases of classroom materials, cleaning supplies and meals. Providers can also use the funds to offer tuition relief to families.
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